How to Make Turkish Stuffed Mushrooms (Mantarli Dolma)
Turkish stuffed mushrooms, known as Mantarlı Dolma, are a delightful and savory dish that can elevate any meal. This recipe features mushrooms filled with a delicious mixture of herbs, spices, and other ingredients, making it a perfect appetizer or side dish for your dinner table. Follow these simple steps to create your own version of Mantarlı Dolma.
Ingredients
- 12 large mushrooms (preferably button or cremini)
- 1 cup cooked rice (preferably short-grain or jasmine)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, finely chopped (red or green)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup vegetable broth or water
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Clean the mushrooms by gently wiping them with a damp cloth to remove any dirt. Remove the stems carefully and set them aside. The caps will be used for stuffing, while the stems will be added to the filling.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and chopped bell pepper, cooking for an additional 3 minutes. Chop the reserved mushroom stems and add them to the skillet, seasoning with salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme. Sauté everything until the mushrooms soften, about 4-5 minutes.
Remove the skillet from heat. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed vegetable mixture, chopped parsley, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Step 3: Stuff the Mushrooms
Using a spoon, carefully fill each mushroom cap with the prepared filling. Press it down gently with the back of the spoon to ensure they are well-packed. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Step 4: Bake
Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms, and pour the vegetable broth around them in the tray. This will help keep the mushrooms moist while baking. Cover the tray with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
Step 5: Serve
Once cooked, remove the Mantarlı Dolma from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm as an appetizer or side dish, garnished with additional fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy the rich and savory flavors of these traditional Turkish stuffed mushrooms!
Tips for Perfect Mantarlı Dolma
- Feel free to customize the filling by adding cooked ground meat or other vegetables to suit your taste.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the cheese and use vegan cheese alternatives.
- Pair these stuffed mushrooms with a refreshing yogurt dip for an extra layer of flavor.
Turkish stuffed mushrooms are not only budget-friendly but also a great way to impress your guests. With this simple recipe, you can bring a taste of Turkey into your home!